Bonne Terre woman killed in hit ‘n run accident; family wants answers

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DE SOTO, MO (KPLR) - A Bonne Terre mother of three was hit by a car and killed late Wednesday night in St. Francois County. The driver fled the scene. Three days ago, friends and family were celebrating Jennifer Tyler’s 32nd birthday. Now they are planning her funeral.

“I was supposed to die before her. I was supposed to see my kids happy and settled and my grandkids grown,” said Janet Combs, Jennifer’s mother.

But Combs no longer has her daughter. Tyler struck hit and killed at the intersection of Highways 67 and Y late Wednesday. Troopers don’t know why Tyler got out of her car and tried to cross 67. It’s all under investigation.

“Nothing’s going to help the sadness, but I just want to know what happened and why,” Combs said.

Jennifer’s family described her as a wonderful person who loved to cook. So much so she became known as “the steak lady.”

“You would not believe the quality. At-home mom. It was like going to a five star restaurant,” said Gary Lebcowitz, Jennifer’s brother.

Jennifer even showed off her cooking skills as a guest on Fox 2 News at Nine back in February.

A GoFundMe account has been established for her three children, ages 13, 10, and 7.

“They can have something, go to college, help them out, because she’s not here to help them out anymore,” Combs said.

Jennifer’s family is desperate to know who is responsible for her death. It may give them some peace of mind.

“Whoever is responsible for this they need to come forth because they took my baby away too soon,” Combs said.

“Put yourself in my mom’s shoes, put yourself in my family’s shoes. If you’re out there and you know anything, just help us. Anything,” Lebcowitz said.

Missouri Highway Patrol troopers are hoping the victim’s clothing may yield clues to what kind of vehicle struck Tyler. A private memorial service for close friends and family will be held next week.